Thousands of employers across the country, from global companies to small local businesses, offer apprenticeships. These are real jobs where you can earn a wage, learn new skills, and work towards a recognised qualification – all at the same time.

Apprenticeships offer more than just paid training:

Real work experience that sets you apart
No tuition fees or student loans
Networking and peer support
Discounts and student perks
Paid holidays

We know that choosing what to do after school is a big decision – and we’re here to help make it easier. Here’s our five step checklist for picking the right apprenticeship for you.

1. Choose the right path

If you’re weighing up your next steps after school or college, here are some great options that combine work and study:

Apprenticeships: Real work experience, real wages, and practical learning. You can search and apply for current vacancies using the Find an Apprenticeship service.
T Levels: These are classroom-based qualifications with an industry placement, equivalent to three A levels.
Traineeships: Designed to help you prepare for an apprenticeship or work, traineeships offer unpaid work experience and training.

2. Choose the right employer

Whether you join a small business or a large organisation, apprenticeships offer a unique, tailored experience.

Here’s what you can expect from each:

Apprenticeships with small employers:

Strong one-to-one mentoring
Exposure to different roles
More responsibility
A close-knit team

Apprenticeships with large employers:

Opportunity to relocate or rotate roles
Well-established career progression
Work alongside other apprentices
A well-known name for your CV

3. Know what to look for in an apprenticeship

Before you apply, ask yourself:

Does the job description match what you’re looking for?
How will your off-the-job learning time be delivered?
What are the employee benefits?
Who is the training provider?

It’s also a good idea to speak to the employer or training provider directly – don’t be afraid to ask questions!

4. Apply for more than one apprenticeship

Just like applying for university, you don’t have to put all your eggs in one basket. Apply for multiple apprenticeships to boost your chances.

Different employers recruit at different times, so keep checking back.

5. Be okay with changing your mind

Thinking about switching paths? No problem.

If you applied to full-time education but want to start an apprenticeship instead, you can still do that.

If you’re on an apprenticeship and decide it’s not the right fit, your training provider can support you to find a new job or study option.

Ready to take the next step?

Visit our apprenticeship vacancies page or contact our team directly to find out how we can help you get started on the path that’s right for you. Our friendly advisors at Grimsby Institute are here to help!

01472 311222 (option 5)

[email protected]